Q&A with: Michael Westbrook

John Keim

04/03/2002

The Redskins say they want him back. Michael Westbrook says he wants to return. So what's the holdup? Westbrook isn't sure and the Redskins only say that they'll continue to talk. Here's a Q&A with the talented, but oft-injured receiver.

Q: How much have you talked with the Redskins?

A: We've talked a couple of times. We just have to reach a number and we're not close yet.

Q: Have you been on any visits?

A: I haven't been on any. I don't want to take any until I know I won't be here.

Q: Do you think it will work out here?

A: I don't know, but I'm hoping and praying. But it doesn't smell right. I do want to stay here; I love my owner.

Q: Has this taken longer than you expected?

A: It's taken a little while. When I was about to start visiting teams is when the Redskins made their first offer so I decided to wait. It's very weird. It feels like I'm doing nothing with my life. I wake up early and I work out early and then I have the rest of my day.

Q: How tough is this process for you?

A: Nothing is too difficult for me. It's just a process. I do want to play some football. This is the longest I've been without being around it. And I'm healthy! I want to be out there going to camps and practices and being with the guys and throwing the ball around. All I can do now is go to the track, run and stay in shape.

Q: How long are you prepared to wait?

A: I could very well sign after June 1. I held out for 26 days as a rookie so I can be patient. You could sign for garbage without patience.

John Keim covers the Redskins for The Journal Newspapers and is a correspondent for Pro Football Weekly.